Hamilton loving life at Saracens

Jim Hamilton admits joining Saracens was an opportunity he couldn't turn down as he settles at his new club after moving from Montpellier.

New signing Jim Hamilton says joining Saracens was an opportunity he could not turn down as he settles at Allianz Park after moving from Montpellier.

The 31-year-old Scotland international lock, who has a wealth of experience, has had two previous spells in England with Leicester and Gloucester.

And the chance to swap the Top 14 for a move to Saracens was one the forward snapped up.

"The opportunity arose this summer to come to Saracens and it was something that I couldn't turn down really," he revealed, speaking to Saracens.

"It wasn't difficult to come to Saracens. They have a fantastic set-up, a great set of players, were top of the league, reached a Heineken Cup final and a Premiership final last season and it is something that I want to be a part of.

"It was unfortunate that the Montpellier move didn't work out as maybe I thought it would have, but that's in the past now and if I didn't have that year there then this opportunity would have never come around."

He added on his new club: "It's fantastic. You hear a lot of things from the outside of Saracens being a family club, a very upbeat and happy club, and that's exactly what it is. It's great for me and family and so far it has surpassed all expectations. I'm really looking forward to getting involved and playing some matches.

"Ultimately now is getting the hard work done in pre-season and the guys look in good shape. The way Saracens played last year I was well aware that the guys would be in great shape in terms of strength and conditioning so it's been brilliant to be a part so far."